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Zestoretic |
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What is Zestoretic and why is it prescribed? Zestoretic is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It combines an ACE inhibitor drug with a diuretic. Lisinopril, the ACE inhibitor, works by limiting production of a substance that promotes salt and water retention in your body. Hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic, prompts your body to produce and eliminate more urine, which helps in lowering blood pressure. Combination products such as Zestoretic are usually not prescribed until therapy is already under way. You must take Zestoretic regularly for it to be effective. How should you take Zestoretic? Follow your doctors directions for taking Zestoretic. Zestoretic can be taken with or without food once a day. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take a double dose. Zestoretic should be stored at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Are there any Zestoretic side effects? Zestoretic side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Zestoretic side effects may include cough, dizziness, dizziness when standing up, fatigue, and headache. Less common Zestoretic side effects may include asthma, diarrhea, hair loss, impotence, indigestion, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, nausea, rash, tingling or pins and needles, upper respiratory infection, vomiting, and weakness. Rare Zestoretic side effects may include abdominal pain, anemia, arthritis, back pain, back strain, blurred vision, bronchitis, bruising, chest discomfort or pain, common cold, confusion, constipation, decreased sex drive, depression, difficulty breathing, difficulty falling or staying asleep, dry mouth, earache, excessive perspiration, fainting, fever, flu, flushing, foot pain, gas, general feeling of illness, gout, hay fever, heart attack, heartburn, heart rhythm disturbances, hepatitis, hives, itching, joint pain, knee pain, loss of appetite, lung inflammation or congestion, muscle pain, muscle spasm, nervousness, palpitations, rapid heartbeat, red or purple areas on the skin, reduced urine output, restlessness, ringing in ears, sensitivity to light, shortness of breath, severe allergic reaction, shoulder pain, sinus inflammation, skin inflammation, sleepiness, sore throat, stomach and intestinal cramps, stroke, stuffy nose, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, taste disturbances, throat, or arms and legs, trauma, urinary tract infection, vertigo, virus infection, vision abnormality in which objects have a yellowish hue, and yellow eyes and skin. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Zestoretic? If Zestoretic is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Zestoretic may intensify the effects of alcohol. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zestoretic with Barbiturates (such as Nembutal and Seconal), Cholestyramine (Questran), Colestipol (Colestid), Corticosteroids (such as prednisone), High blood pressure drugs (such as Procardia XL and Aldomet), Indomethacin (Indocin), Insulin, Lithium (Lithonate), Narcotics (such as Darvon and Dilaudid), Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Naprosyn), Oral antidiabetic drugs (such as Micronase), Potassium supplements (such as K-Dur and Slow-K), Potassium-containing salt substitutes, or Potassium-sparing diuretics (such as Midamor). Are there any special warnings about Zestoretic? If you develop swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, or of your arms and legs, or have difficulty swallowing or breathing, you should stop taking Zestoretic and contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment. Zestoretic may cause your blood pressure to become too low. If you feel light-headed, especially during the first few days of treatment, inform your doctor. If you actually faint, stop taking Zestoretic until you have consulted your doctor. Excessive sweating, dehydration, severe diarrhea, or vomiting could cause you to lose too much water and cause your blood pressure to drop dangerously. If you develop chest pain, a sore throat, or fever and chills, contact your doctor immediately. It could indicate a more serious illness. Make sure the doctor knows if you have congestive heart failure or other heart problems, diabetes, liver disease, a history of allergy or bronchial asthma, or lupus erythematosus. Zestoretic should be used cautiously. If you have kidney disease, your doctor should monitor your kidney function regularly. If you are undergoing desensitization to bee or wasp venom, Zestoretic may cause a severe allergic reaction. This medication is not recommended for people on dialysis. If you notice a yellowish cast to your skin or eyes, stop taking Zestoretic and contact your doctor immediately. If you are diabetic, your doctor will want to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels. Before any surgery, make sure your doctor or dentist knows you are taking Zestoretic. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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